Top tips on buying a used van

MANY van drivers are likely to be tradesmen looking to keep costs as low as possible, buying a used vehicle is one of the most effective ways of achieving this. Considering the heavy duty use vans are put through and the considerable distances they travel, buying a van that is fit for purpose is essential. Our guide provides the necessary information you need to buy your used van with confidence. The main factors to consider when buying a used van is whether to purchase a petrol or diesel vehicle. Approximately 95% of vans are now diesel powered in the UK, but this popularity is being tackled by the Government and London Mayor Boris Johnson, who has called upon the Government to implement a nationwide diesel car scrapping scheme. This is to include all diesel cars and vans over a year old. As 3% of vans are 20 or more years old this will effect over 100,000 drivers. If the scheme is approved, the owners of the vehicles to be scrapped would be paid between £1,000 and £2,000 for their vehicles[1]. In July 2014 Mr Johnson also announced that drivers of diesel vans face an extra £10 on top of the existing congestion charge to drive into central London, which in 2020, is due to be designated an ultra-low emissions zone. As almost half (44%) of UK registered vans visit London each year this will also effect a sizable number of van drivers. The move is also being considered by other British cities, as they search for ways to reduce diesel fumes in a bid to reach EU clean air targets. [1] Sourced from www.racfoundation.org/research/mobility/van-travel-trends-in-great-britain-report